State PCS - JAMMU & KASHMIR (JKAS)

• 28 May 2025

First Cherry Cargo Train

Why in News? 

In a first-of-its-kind initiative to transport perishable produce from Jammu and Kashmir, the Jammu Railway Division is set to flag off its first Cherry Cargo Train. 

Key Points 

• About the Cherry Cargo Train: 
  • It has been launched by the Northern Railway, Jammu Division, to create a reliable rail-based transportation channel for perishable agricultural goods. 
  • It is designed specifically to facilitate the shipment of cherries and similar produce to markets outside J&K. 
• Logistics and Route: 
  • The cargo will be transported from Katra Railway Station in Jammu and Kashmir to Bandra Railway Station in Mumbai. 
  • A Parcel Van (VP) will be attached to a regular goods train for this purpose. 
    • VP is a request for the allocation of a full parcel van for the shipment of goods.  
  • The journey is expected to take 30 hours, significantly reducing transit time compared to traditional road transport. 
• Stakeholders and Planning: 
  • This effort was finalized after extensive consultations between the Northern Railway, the Horticulture Department of J&K, and various fruit grower associations. 

Significance and Benefits of the Initiative 

• Benefits for Fruit Growers: 
  • The use of rail transport ensures that perishable produce like cherries reaches markets faster, thereby reducing the chances of spoilage and maintaining quality. 
  • It provides a cost-effective alternative to road transportation, benefiting small and medium-scale growers economically. 
• Impact on the Region: 
  • The initiative is expected to boost the economy of J&K by enhancing the market reach of its agricultural products. 
  • It will also help reduce road traffic congestion and environmental pollution, making it a sustainable option for future freight movement. 
  • If successful, this model could be replicated for other produce such as apples, pears, and plums, expanding its benefits further.

Kashmir’s Cherry

• Cherry is a crucial early-season fruit crop in Kashmir, typically harvested during May and June. 
• J&K contributes approximately 95% of India’s total cherry production, making it the leading producer in the country. 
• Five main cherry varieties grown in Kashmir include: 
  • Mishri – the sweetest and most expensive. 
  • Double cherry – widely cultivated for canning, juice, and jam. 
  • Makhmali, Black (Gol), and Awal Number – locally popular. 
• Cherry farming is an important source of mid-year income for fruit growers, especially before the apple harvest season. 
• The crop is extremely sensitive to weather conditions, especially: 
  • Heavy rainfall – which causes the fruit to crack and rot. 
  • Hailstorms and temperature drops – which disrupt harvesting and reduce shelf life.